FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 27, 2012) — Upon learning that the four former executives involved in the now-infamous Eastern Livestock scam would plead guilty, Agriculture Commissioner James Comer expressed relief that the plea agreement included restitution for Kentucky farmers who were swindled out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“These farmers sold cattle in good faith and watched in disbelief as Eastern Livestock’s checks bounced,” said Commissioner Comer. “This was an enormous hardship for them and their families, and I’m relieved they will have some solace.”

The Kentucky and U.S. Departments of Agriculture worked closely with the attorney general’s office and federal law enforcement in bringing the Eastern Livestock conspirators to justice. State Veterinarian Dr. Robert Stout assisted the appropriate authorities to help bring this case to a swift and just resolution.

“I applaud all these agencies for working together to help our family farmers,” added Commissioner Comer. “Without the expertise of each of these groups, such a speedy recovery would have been impossible.”